CrimeMar 23, 2026
NYPD Looking for 3 Jewelry Store Robbery SuspectsThe group of women allegedly robbed two Catbird stores and one Gorjana location on the afternoon of March 9.
MajorsAug 18, 2025
Verragio’s Michael Barabash, a ‘Kind Soul,’ Dies at 58
Barabash, Verragio’s client relations representative, was a vital member of the team and is remembered as being warm and full of life.
Verragio Client Relations Representative Michael Barabash, left, died unexpectedly earlier this month. He is remembered for his warmth, his industry knowledge, and his ability to brighten anyone’s day.
New York— Michael Barabash, a beloved member of the Verragio team, died Aug. 9.
He was 58.
Verragio announced news of his death last week, stating that Barabash had been battling an illness but was showing signs of improvement before unexpectedly passing away.
In a statement, Verragio described Barabash, who worked as a client relations representative for the company, as a “vital” part of its customer service team.
Barabash, who previously worked as a virtual inventory manager for Virtual Diamond Boutique, brought nearly three decades of jewelry industry experience to the New York-based bridal jewelry company.
He was passionate about his craft, had extensive knowledge about the jewelry industry, and inspired everyone around him, said the company.
“He had an exceptional talent for brightening anyone’s day, whether through a simple joke, shared memory, or his warm smile,” Verragio said.
“He was more than a colleague; he was family. His presence brought joy and comfort, and his absence leaves a void that cannot be filled.”
According to a GoFundMe page created to help Barabash’s family with funeral and other expenses, Barabash is survived by his husband, Raymond Cuadrado, who “meant the world to him.”
“Michael was more than just a co-worker—he was a kind soul, a source of encouragement, and a loyal friend to all who had the privilege of knowing him,” the page reads.
“His warmth, generosity, and sense of humor touched countless lives, both inside and outside of work.”
In addition to his husband, Barabash is survived by his mother and a sister.
Those who wish to contribute to the GoFundMe can do so here.
He was 58.
Verragio announced news of his death last week, stating that Barabash had been battling an illness but was showing signs of improvement before unexpectedly passing away.
In a statement, Verragio described Barabash, who worked as a client relations representative for the company, as a “vital” part of its customer service team.
Barabash, who previously worked as a virtual inventory manager for Virtual Diamond Boutique, brought nearly three decades of jewelry industry experience to the New York-based bridal jewelry company.
He was passionate about his craft, had extensive knowledge about the jewelry industry, and inspired everyone around him, said the company.
“He had an exceptional talent for brightening anyone’s day, whether through a simple joke, shared memory, or his warm smile,” Verragio said.
“He was more than a colleague; he was family. His presence brought joy and comfort, and his absence leaves a void that cannot be filled.”
According to a GoFundMe page created to help Barabash’s family with funeral and other expenses, Barabash is survived by his husband, Raymond Cuadrado, who “meant the world to him.”
“Michael was more than just a co-worker—he was a kind soul, a source of encouragement, and a loyal friend to all who had the privilege of knowing him,” the page reads.
“His warmth, generosity, and sense of humor touched countless lives, both inside and outside of work.”
In addition to his husband, Barabash is survived by his mother and a sister.
Those who wish to contribute to the GoFundMe can do so here.
More on Majors
The Latest
FinancialsMar 23, 2026
Movado’s Q4 Sales Rise As Demand Grows From Younger Shoppers, WomenMovado CEO Efraim Grinberg noted continued strength in the fashion watch and accessible luxury segments in the U.S.
TrendsMar 23, 2026
Marco Bicego’s New Campaign Showcases ‘The Art of Craft’After celebrating 25 years in 2025, the campaign marks a new chapter for the jewelry brand with the message that “Identity Creates Value.”
Brought to you by
Protect Your Customers and Your BusinessYou deserve to know what you are selling–to protect your customers as well as your business and your reputation.
Events & AwardsMar 23, 2026
These Watch Brands Are Heading to Couture This YearCouture and Time to Watches announced the watch brands, from big names to independents, attendees will see at the show.
Weekly QuizMar 19, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
FinancialsMar 20, 2026
Macy’s Turnaround Plans Shows Promise, Boosted by Bloomingdale’sPlus, why Saks Global’s bankruptcy may have given Bloomingdale’s an edge.
AuctionsMar 20, 2026
Sotheby's, De Beers Unveil ‘Jwaneng 28.88’ DiamondThe flawless, Type IIa stone is estimated to achieve up to $2.8 million at the auction house’s high jewelry sale in April.
Brought to you by
Is This You? Every Jeweler Has This Problem; We Have the Solution.Every jeweler faces the same challenge: helping customers protect what they love. Here’s the solution designed for today’s jewelry business.
TrendsMar 20, 2026
‘Frankenstein’ Costume Designer Is Bejeweled In Brooches for Oscars WinCostume designer Kate Hawley wore three archival Tiffany & Co. brooches, our Pieces of the Week, while accepting her first Oscar.
FinancialsMar 19, 2026
Signet Jewelers to Close 100 Stores, Shutter James Allen BannerThe jewelry retailer announced changes to its store network and brand portfolio during its fourth-quarter earnings call.
SurveysMar 19, 2026
NRF Forecasts 4% Retail Sales Growth in 2026From a weaker labor market to inflation, NRF Chief Economist Mark Mathews gave insight on what retailers can expect this year.
AuctionsMar 19, 2026
26-Carat Diamond Tops $1M at AuctionThe historic stone, which sold at Elmwood’s in London, is the largest white diamond to be offered on the U.K. market in more than a decade.
Events & AwardsMar 19, 2026
JCK Rocks To Ride With NellyThree-time Grammy award-winning artist Nelly is set to perform at the annual event at Tao Beach in Las Vegas on May 31.
AuctionsMar 18, 2026
Collection of the ‘Severely Beautiful’ Lady Wardington Fetches $161KThe model and fashion editor’s gold evening bags were the top lots at the London sale, going for more than $25,000 each.
PodcastsMar 18, 2026
Episode 3: An Interview With Jewelry Designer Johnny NelsonFresh off winning the David Yurman Gem Awards Grant, Nelson discusses the ring that launched his career and his plans for the future.
SourcingMar 18, 2026
Lucara Recovers Nearly 37-Carat Blue DiamondThe “stunning” Type IIb stone was found via x-ray technology at its Karowe mine in Botswana.
Events & AwardsMar 17, 2026
The Best Moments From the 2026 Gem Awards Held just before the Oscars, the jewelry industry’s big awards show had its share of standout jewelry, gowns, and acceptance speeches.
SourcingMar 17, 2026
Cruzeiro Mine Debuts ‘Winter Tourmaline’The Brazilian mine’s new collection features cabochons in soft, muted shades like silver and lilac.
TrendsMar 17, 2026
Natalie Portman Is Tiffany & Co.’s New AmbassadorThe Academy Award-winning actress stars in Tiffany & Co.’s latest commercial, which debuted Sunday night during the Oscars.
EditorsMar 16, 2026
2026 Oscars Jewelry: One Necklace After AnotherNatalie Francisco rounds up the top Oscars jewels, including Rose Byrne’s Taffin necklace with a more than 20-carat yellow-brown diamond.
WatchesMar 16, 2026
TAG Heuer Has a New CEOBéatrice Goasglas has been with TAG Heuer since 2018. She is the first woman to head the 166-year-old, LVMH-owned watch brand.
IndependentsMar 16, 2026
Ben Bridge Debuts New Honolulu BoutiqueThe store features the first in-store build for the jeweler’s in-house “Bella Ponte” bridal brand.
AuctionsMar 16, 2026
Bonhams Paris To Offer Antique, Signed Jewels The live fine jewelry auction will take place later this week, showcasing antique pieces, rare gemstones, and signed jewels.
CollectionsMar 13, 2026
A Trio of Jewels from the 3 Gem Award Nominees for Jewelry DesignOur Pieces of the Week honor the 2026 nominees for the Gem Award for Jewelry Design, Silvia Furmanovich, Cece Fein-Hughes, and Catherine Sarr.
WatchesMar 13, 2026
Citizen, Vera Wang to Launch Watch CollectionThe 24-piece watch collection is set to debut in spring 2027.
SourcingMar 13, 2026
Andrea Pooler Joins Third-Generation Diamond Company as COO Pooler, who has more than 25 years’ experience in jewelry, is now chief operating officer of Modani Jewels, Soham Diamonds, and SNJ Creations.
MajorsMar 13, 2026
24 Karat Club of New York’s Banquet to Return to Waldorf AstoriaThe reopening of the Waldorf Astoria means a homecoming for the industry group’s annual event, which will take place Saturday.
